A group of children with backpacks and adults cross a street at a crosswalk on a sunny day, guided by a crossing guard in a yellow vest.

International Walk to School Day is October 7

October 1, 2026

On Wednesday, October 7, students, families, and staff at Middleton Elementary School will celebrate International Walk to School Day by walking, biking, and rolling to school. This annual event promotes healthy, active transportation while highlighting the importance of safe routes to school.

The event is part of Sherwood’s ongoing Safe Routes to School program, which works to make it safer and easier for students to walk and bike to school. Through partnerships with schools and the community, the City continues to invest in improvements that enhance pedestrian safety and encourage active transportation.

One of the newest safety improvements is the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) at SW Sunset Boulevard and SW Timbrel Lane. Located near Middleton Elementary, the beacon provides students and families with a safer way to cross Sunset Boulevard. The signal remains dark until activated by a pedestrian, then guides drivers through a sequence of yellow and red lights that require motorists to stop while pedestrians cross. More information on how to properly use pedestrian hybrid beacon signals can be found on the project webpage, www.sherwoodoregon.gov/projects/sunset-timbrel-pedestrian-signal-and-ada-curb-ramps.

If you’re driving near Middleton Elementary on the morning of October 7, please be prepared for increased pedestrian activity. Your patience and attention can help ensure every student arrives at school safely.

Remember to:

  • Slow down and obey school zone speed limits.
  • Watch for students walking, biking, and rolling to school.
  • Stop when the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon is activated.
  • Avoid distractions and stay alert.
  • Allow a little extra travel time during the morning commute.

Whether you’re walking with a student, driving through the neighborhood, or simply cheering on participants, you can help make International Walk to School Day a success. Together, we can create safer streets and support healthy transportation choices for Sherwood’s students.